Niki Prasad to Lead India U19 Team in ACC Women’s U19 Asia Cup

All-rounder Niki Prasad has been appointed as the captain of the India U19 team for the inaugural ACC Women’s U19 Asia Cup. The tournament is scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur from December 15 to December 22. This event marks an essential platform for young talents to exhibit their skills, and it serves as a preparatory ground for India’s 2025 U19 Women’s T20 World Cup campaign.

Niki Prasad earned the captaincy after a stellar performance, which included winning the Player of the Series award in the women’s Under 19 T20 Challenger Trophy. Supporting her will be Sanika Chalke, who has been designated as the vice-captain for the squad.

The Indian squad boasts of significant talent, including three players who were part of the victorious U19 Women’s T20 World Cup team in 2023—G Trisha, Shabnam Shakil, and Sonam Yadav. Additionally, the left-handed wicketkeeper-batter, G Kamalini, is a noteworthy inclusion, having scored an impressive 79 not out against South Africa in a previous final.

The team roster is further strengthened by players like Ishawari Awasare, Mithila Vinod, and Joshitha VJ, among others. The squad is rounded out with standbys and a non-traveling reserve, ensuring a comprehensive roster for the tournament.

India has been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan and Nepal, with Group B comprising Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and host nation Malaysia. India’s matches in the group stage include a high-stakes opening match against Pakistan on December 15, followed by a clash with Nepal on December 17. The top two teams from each group will progress to the Super Four stage, culminating in the final on December 22.

India’s participation in this inaugural ACC Women’s U19 Asia Cup is not just about competing for the title, but also an opportunity to hone their skills and build a strong team for future tournaments. Notably, India clinched the first edition of the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup earlier in 2023 under the leadership of Shafali Verma, showcasing their prowess in the junior cricket circuit.